Cambridge’s leading letting specialist, Accent Property, is pleased to announce that it has joined the nationwide SAFEagent campaign aimed at protecting tenants’ and landlords’ money. As long-standing members of the Association of Residential Letting Agents (ARLA), Accent has always carefully protected its clients’ money and conducted all aspects of its business in accordance with ARLA’s strict code of conduct.
The firm has joined the SAFEagent scheme as another way in which it can convey its high standards of practice to landlords and tenants.
Says Accent’s branch manager, Sarah Cox: “We are pleased to be members of the SAFEagent scheme as this is an additional way for us to clearly communicate that any money we hold on behalf of our landlords and tenants is safely protected.
“Having always adhered to the best standards of practice over the 15 years that we have been in lettings, we are well recognised within the industry for our financial probity. However, being a trustworthy letting agent is about more than just protecting clients’ money. A letting agent should also be experienced, knowledgeable and competent to let and manage property with a thorough understanding of the complex legislation surrounding letting.
“Unfortunately not all letting agents are qualified or experienced, even if they do protect their clients’ money, and this is an issue the public should be aware of, particularly now, as more people than ever are turning to lettings.”
Accent points out that last year the government confirmed it has no plans to regulate letting agents - a decision the firm was very disappointed by. Says Sarah: “The SAFEagent scheme is one way in which the public can have more confidence in letting agents, however, we would still urge landlords and tenants to be wary when choosing their letting agent, as the protection of client money is not the only issue. You also need to be sure that your agent will let the property safely, comply with all the legislation and protect your interests as a landlord or tenant during your tenancy.”
As Sarah explains, getting it wrong can have dire consequences for landlords, including huge legal expenses, loss of rent, financial penalties and even custodial sentences for not complying with legislation. For tenants it can literally be a matter of life and death if legislation regarding the safety of the property and its contents is not complied with, for example gas, electrical and fire safety regulations.
Sarah argues that a good letting agent should also have an in-depth knowledge of the local letting market, a firm grip on what is happening in the property market generally, and the ability to look after the needs of a range of clients efficiently and professionally. “Being a SAFEagent does not in itself guarantee all this, which is why our advice to landlords and tenants is to only use an agent with many years experience, a good reputation, client money protection and above all, membership of a professional body such as ARLA, NAEA or RICS. These organisations are self-regulating and ensure that member agents comply with a rigorous code of conduct.”
For advice you can trust on all aspects of renting or letting in Cambridge and the surrounding areas, please contact Accent Property on 01223 500387; email
info@accentproperty.comENDS
Posted 29-02-2012
